Role change: Chief Executive Donald Tsang announces Elsie Leung's role as Secretary for Justice will be taken up by Wong Yan-lung.

The State Council has approved the appointment of Wong Yan-lung to succeed Elsie Leung as Secretary for Justice with immediate effect.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang hailed Mr Wong's commitment to the rule of law, to the legal profession and to Hong Kong, adding that his patriotism, gentle and upright disposition, and professional expertise and reputation will fulfil the job required.

"The rule of law is one of the pillars of Hong Kong's prosperity. It is imperative for us to protect this value. I look forward to working with Mr Wong to uphold the rule of law during my term of office," he said.

Clear conscience

Mr Wong said he will work for the benefit of Hong Kong according to his conscience, and uphold the rule of law and give legal advice to the administration independently, while also boosting ties with Mainland counterparts.

He said he will handle political issues according to law, and called on the community to abandon suspicion to build mutual trust. He hoped there will be no need to approach the National People's Congress on the Basic Law during his term.

Chief Justice Andrew Li welcomed the appointment, saying Mr Wong is widely respected for his dedication, integrity and professionalism. He also applauded Ms Leung's dedicated and selfless service.

New role

Mr Tsang also praised Ms Leung's dedication to Hong Kong and the rule of law, adding she has accepted his invitation to join the Constitutional Development Task Force.

"Elsie's mammoth workload never stopped her from promoting the interests of the legal profession. She has been vigorous in fostering exchanges and liaison between the legal sectors in Hong Kong and the Mainland. Her efforts are well recognised by her peers," he said.

Ms Leung will join the task force in a personal capacity. "Despite my repeated offer of remuneration, Elsie agreed to take only a nominal remuneration. I would like to thank her for her selfless devotion to serving the public," he said, adding constitutional reform has reached a defining moment, and she is conversant with the subject. Her knowledge and experience will greatly help the task force explain the Government's proposals to the public and secure their support.